The Supreme Court of India has mandated the establishment of a regulatory body to oversee the unregulated allied healthcare sectors, setting a two-month deadline for the creation of a national commission and state councils. This move addresses the rapid proliferation of unrecognized institutions offering allied healthcare courses, a situation exacerbated by the delay in implementing the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions Act, 2021.
Challenges Facing Allied Healthcare Professions
The National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) is facing challenges in forming regulatory bodies and setting operational standards. Professions such as art therapists, audiologists, and physiotherapists remain largely unregulated. Yagna Shukla, Chairperson of the NCAHP, stated that the commission, established in January 2024, will expedite the formation of state councils to better understand and address the specific needs of various professions. The aim is to streamline education and ensure quality training for healthcare professionals.
Concerns Over Substandard Education
Dr. B Srinivas, Secretary of the National Medical Commission (NMC), highlighted the issues arising from the lack of regulation. Many institutions operate without minimum standards for curriculum, faculty, or infrastructure, leading to poor educational quality and inflated fees. Graduates from these institutions often lack the skills needed for effective patient care.
The absence of a common entrance exam further complicates the situation. Dr. Srinivas suggested that the NCAHP should develop regulations similar to those of the NMC, including standards for departments, faculty numbers, classroom sizes, and practical training durations.
Regulatory Reforms in Progress
The NCAHP is working to meet the Supreme Court’s deadline by first establishing state councils. Shukla emphasized that while the formation of detailed regulations is still in progress, the commission is committed to adhering to the court’s timeline.
Dr. Srinivas also advocated for regular inspections to ensure that institutions meet the defined standards. He stressed the importance of allied healthcare institutions partnering with hospitals for student internships to enhance practical knowledge and patient interaction. The Health Ministry has advised the NCAHP to draw structural inspiration from the NMC to ensure effective regulation and oversight.
The regulatory overhaul aims to improve educational quality and professional preparedness in the allied healthcare sector, ensuring that institutions adhere to rigorous standards and provide valuable training for future healthcare professionals.
